Library lowers fees for late materials

Effective Friday, the McPherson Public Library reduced the amount it charges patrons for overdue library materials from 15 cents per item per day to 10 cents per item per day.

Effective Friday, the McPherson Public Library reduced the amount it charges patrons for overdue library materials from 15 cents per item per day to 10 cents per item per day. The library had raised fines to 15 cents on Jan. 1 in an effort to increase revenue, but it was not a popular move with patrons. “It didn’t play well at the time, and it continues to be an issue,” Library Director Steve Read said of the higher fines. “We are a public library, and we have to be sensitive to what our patrons want.”In addition to lowering fines, the library also is giving patrons the opportunity to pay off any new or existing fines at a significantly reduced rate of 50 percent of the total. The library invites all patrons to visit the library between Monday and Nov. 22, pay off any fines they might have and check out some new materials. The library is planning a special way of showing their appreciation for patrons who have no fines or clear their accounts during that time.The 50 percent off fines opportunity does not include charges on patron accounts for lost items, damaged items and collections.Anyone with questions or requiring additional information may call the library at 245-2570 or email them at library@macpl.org.